Harvest Blog

Cannabis Sativa vs Indica: Which to Choose for Zen

Before the days of legalization, few people in modern times knew anything about marijuana except that it got you "stoned." But the last decade has led to a growing awareness of the core differences between the various cannabis subspecies – cannabis sativa, cannabis indica and cannabis ruderalis – as well as the nuances among countless strains. While some certainly still view it all as “pot,” most people who consume marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes recognize that these three subspecies have vastly different applications. When coupled with the proper knowledge and intent, cannabis can become a core part of a daily health routine that promotes balance and total wellness.

3 Main Types of Marijuana

Cannabis sativa – The oldest form of cannabis, the sativa plant can be traced back 12,000+ years to Central Asia. Ancient peoples from Asia to medieval Germany to the Vikings originally used cannabis sativa for a host of physical and spiritual health benefits. Despite its rich historical origins, the plant wasn’t formally named until 1753 by Carl Linnaeus.

Cannabis indica – In 1785, French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck reported that there was a second strain of the cannabis plant. He discovered the plant growing in and around India, and consequently named it cannabis indica.

Cannabis ruderalis – This third, less familiar, strain wasn’t described until 1924 by Russian botanist D. E. Janischewsky. C. ruderalis is a low-THC cannabis species that’s native to Central and Eastern Europe, and Russia.

While there are numerous distinctions in appearance between these three strains, unless you’re a botanist, you’re likely primarily concerned with the difference in effects. We find that the majority of our patients are mostly interested in the first two subspecies – cannabis sativa and cannabis indica – and how they can be used for specific outcomes.

Differences Between Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica

Sativa and indica each deliver distinct health benefits that naturally align with daytime and nighttime routines. Understanding why and when to choose between the two can help you create a balanced cannabis regimen that you can use all throughout the day. Otherwise you may find yourself falling asleep at your desk in the morning, or counting sheep at night as you wonder why you can't shut down your mind.

Cannabis sativa is recommended for daytime use and makes it easier to tackle your day with energy and focus. Many patients choose sativa strains to:

If you’re not already using both sativa and indica as part of your medical marijuana treatment plan, it may be worth considering.

The Best of Indica and Sativa: Harvest’s Exclusive Balance Box

At Harvest Health and Recreation, we intimately understand the importance of selecting the right medicinal marijuana products for the right circumstances, benefits and even time of day. That’s why we created the Harvest Balance Box. Our exclusive Balance Box delivers the perfect combination of sativa and indica products so you can start your day with energy and focus and end it with ease and care.

For only $119, enjoy:

An eighth of Cinderella 99 sativa flower

An eighth of Don Draper indica flower

Two Sativa canna-cigars: Green Crush & Strawberry Cough

Two Indica canna-cigars: Docs OG & Chem Dawg

Defi Edibles CBD Cold Brew coffee

Sublime 50mg THC Mineral Salt Soak

Raw rolling papers & lighter

The Balance Box is available for a limited time only at our Arizona locations, but our dispensaries always carry a variety of indica and sativa formulas. Our knowledgeable staff is available to help you find your perfect balance.